Residents have been left wondering ‘why?’ after historic pillars in a Dukinfield Park were vandalised last weekend.

The damage was discovered in the early hours of Saturday morning where stone pillars at the base of the stairs were pushed over.

It was a blow to the community of Dukinfield, who take pride in their park. Residents contacted the Reporter wanting to know why something like this had been done.

Dukinfield Councillor John Taylor confirmed that they have been passed information about four young people who were spotted in the area at that time and that CCTV footage is being reviewed to try and trace the culprits.

Following the incident all three local councillors, Cllr John Taylor, Cllr Jackie Lane and Cllr Naila Sharif, leased with the council to begin repairs and a contract has now been brought in to repair and strengthen the pillars.

Cllr Taylor said: “This area is a major feature in this park we will restore them and look to improve security in the park.

“We will also be speaking to the police about this incident and other concerns with anti social problems in Dukinfield.

“We would like to thank the residents who have contacted us with information about this damage and would suggest any further information can be shared with Dukinfield councillors and the police.”

Cllr Jackie Lane echoed John’s thoughts, saying: “In 2001 we spent capital money in there. We got the Dukinfield Park committee together and bid to have the steps done up.

“A lot of work has gone into that park by the community groups. They’ve been really active.

“They’ve worked hard to get that park where it is and it’s sad that this has happened.

“It saddens me that the community have spent time to do all this then it can be destroyed in a couple of minutes.

“Not all young people are alike and it’s these that give the others a bad name. We’ve got some lovely young people in Dukinfield who do a lot for charity.

“When we do find them we’ll bring them to justice because they’ve got to learn. We will rise above this but it is traumatic and upsetting.”

Their colleague, Cllr Naila Sharif, added: “It is sad to see such vandalism taking place in our community. Today we had a meeting with officers and discussed the potential root behind this incident.

“We have further highlighted this issue to the local community and are taking actions towards combating this in the future.

Tameside Council have also had their say, with Executive Member responsible for Neighbourhoods, Community Safety and Environment, Cllr Allison Gwynne, saying: “Our greenspaces are community assets from which we all benefit and we all have a responsibility to look after them. It is always very disappointing to hear of vandalism in our parks - I know Dukinfield Park is particularly appreciated locally and people will be upset by this act of criminal damage. 

“Our greenspace team is working with our structural engineers and emergency action is being taken to remove the stones for safekeeping until they can be re-installed.  Dukinfield Park will be patrolled by police, who are appealing for witnesses.  Anyone with information relating to this incident should ring Greater Manchester Police on 101.”

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